Volunteer Is Quick To Help Slow Learners

LONGWOOD — Veda Blake once made her living as an elementary school teacher in Orange County. Now, she's in Seminole County schools, but instead of making a living at it, she gives her time freely.

Blake, 42, recently was named Volunteer of the Year by Dividends, Seminole County's school volunteer program. After giving 1,000 hours last year and being a 200-hour plus volunteer for four years, she is said to be the epitome of a volunteer.

Although most of her time is spent at Woodlands Elementary School in Longwood, Blake is quick to help children in other schools. She also is known as a steady volunteer in the Dividends main office, said Dede Schaffner, head of the program.

''She volunteers whenever we need her. It doesn't matter what school it is,'' Schaffner said. ''She's just one of those who you give her a job to do and she takes over and does outstanding. She is just great.''

Blake is modest about her dedication. She said she became involved by being active in her two sons' school activities. Currently, her 9-year-old, Brian, attends Woodlands Elementary, which Blake says is comforting because she knows just what goes on at his school.

Her specialty is working in specific learning disabilities -- with children who take a little longer learning to read, understanding math or other school lessons.

''It's a very special area that helps children become part of the normal classroom,'' Blake said.''It makes a tremendous difference.''

Blake said working in the SLD program enables her to spend more one-on-one time with youngsters and to develop closer relationships. She added that she enjoys watching her students grow and mature as they grasp their once troubling lessons.

She said she also feels good about her work because as a former teacher she knows how helpful an extra person in the classroom can be. And so do the children, she added.

''They know when you care about them and they let you know they appreciate it in their own little way,'' Blake said.

''I love the children and the children love me. What more reason is there?''